BIG FISH ANGLING

Hokitika Guardian, 22 March 1927, Page 4

BIG FISH ANGLING

AIR ZAXE GREY’S A’TF.XV AUCKLAND. March 19. “The adverse .weather conditions have greatly affected the success of deep sea anglers in Xew Zealand waters ibis year.” said Air Zaue Grey, in an interview given on the eve of the conclusion of his exploration for game lish' between AAluuignioa and Cai» Brett, “because catches have been smaller than they wore last year.” “Various theories have been broadcast, to explain the scarcity of fish,” lie said. “I believe that this .summer has been most unseasonal and the same conditions seem, to have existed the world over. Since the average heat lias been lower than usual in. tho southern hemisphere this summer, it may be that the swordfish are remaining in the warmer northern waters instead of migrating to New Zealand waters in the usual large numbers.,

“Then there is the possibility of submarine disturbances affecting the fish just ns the Bay of Plenty fish were disturbed in 192 G. For all we know, the swordfish may spawn in just as vast numbers ns do sharks. Considering the inconsistency of New Zealand weather and the roughness of its seas, there is less chance of the grounds being overfished than any other in the world. As long as the school fish are protected against dynamiters and indiscriminate commercial fishermen, the game fish will he attracted to New Zealand waters. Like humans, fish are drawn to where living is easily won. ‘•Undoubtedly New Zealand game fish are the most prolific in the world and the swordfish are the largest known. The present seems a most opportune time to found a League of New Zealand * .Sportsmen along the lines of the Izaak Walton League which we have in Canada and the United States. The league would jealously guard propagation and preservation of game fish, bird life, deer and moose.

“I will he returning to Now Zealand waters again towards the end of 1928.”